With a home DNA paternity test kit, you will have the advantage of keeping your DNA testing for paternity confidential and discrete.  A home DNA paternity test is ideal for individuals who wish to do a paternity test but do not want to create undo tension, especially if the results do not conflict with what is expected.

An at home DNA paternity test kit can easily be purchased online (often the best deal), or over the counter in certain pharmacies.  You will be able to choose between a buccal swab DNA paternity test or a hair home DNA paternity test.  With the buccal swab kit, a cotton like swab is rubbed on the inside of the mouth of the individuals being tested, while with a hair DNA paternity test three or more pieces of hair are needed (entire lengths of hair from head, public or other regions are acceptable, but these hair pieces must contain the root portion – cut hair will not suffice).  With DNA testing for paternity kits, the possible father, child, and sometimes the biological mother are tested, and results are available from one to three weeks depending on the test kit provider.

Legal DNA paternity testing is the best route to go if you are involved in legal motions involving child custody and support.  A legal DNA paternity test (or a court ordered paternity test) differ from home DNA paternity tests in that there is a third, impartial witness to the testing process involved, and some courts may require that the mother be tested as well as the presumed father and child.

With a legal DNA paternity test, the testing process will be monitored by a witness and the final results will be notarized and can be submitted as evidence in court or to appropriate government or state agencies (be sure, however, to check what the legal requirements are for the state you live in, since this can vary).

Home DNA paternity test kits tend to be a bit more cheaper than legal DNA paternity testing.  An at home DNA paternity test usually runs less than $300, while a court ordered or legal DNA paternity test can cost up to $500.

DNA testing for paternity can be a very emotionally charged process.  Careful thought and choice should be given as to which variety of DNA testing for paternity is right given the circumstances at hand.  For more information about DNA testing for paternity, please visit the Legal DNA Paternity Testing website.